How to Search Papers by Topic with Claude
Search academic papers with Claude and ToolRouter. Find research on any topic instantly.
Tool
Claude turns academic search into a research conversation. Start with a broad query, then progressively narrow by asking about citation counts, specific methodologies, or time periods. Combine multiple searches across related subtopics to build comprehensive coverage. The iterative approach mimics how an experienced researcher navigates the literature.
Connect ToolRouter to Claude
1Go to Settings → Connectors → Add custom connector
2Enter the details below and click Add
Name
ToolRouterURL
https://api.toolrouter.com/mcp3Done — works on Claude chat, desktop, and mobile
Steps
Once connected (see setup above), use the Academic Research tool:
- Ask Claude: "Search for papers on transformer architectures using academic-research"
- Claude returns relevant papers with titles, authors, and abstracts
- Ask: "Which of these are the most cited?"
- Narrow your search with follow-up queries
Example Prompt
Try this with Claude using the Academic Research tool
Find recent academic papers on CRISPR gene therapy for sickle cell disease. Show the most cited ones first.
Tips
- Use specific technical terms for more targeted results
- Ask Claude to summarize the abstracts of top results
- Combine multiple searches to cover different angles of a topic